2004 Dodge Dakota 3.7L. It seems I have developed an oil leak somewhere around the oil filter. I initially thought it was the filter itself but remembered reading a thread on here about a part close to the filter that was known to cause oil leaks. problem is I can't find the thread. Anybody have any info to where this part is?

 

on a 4.7 the sender is above the oil filter and i had a leak there

 

Some also report that the old filter gasket can get stuck and left behind causing a leak.

My main seal leaked but the fan through enough oil around that I first thought my filter was the issue.

 

It was the oil pressure sending unit. You can get the best look at it on the 3.7L from the wheel well. I actually saw the oil leaking. Replaced it and no more leaks. I think I caused it though. When I looked at my Haynes it calls for 6 quarts with a filter change. I have owned this truck since new and always look up the particulars anytime I do anything, even the simplest of tasks. I don't remember ever putting in 6 quarts of oil except this time. I did this time and I may have made a mistake. After changing the sending unit I checked the oil because it had been leaking for a couple of weeks and I was at least a quart over. From here on I'll put in 5 and adjust.